Sky Sports Cricket Podcast The Ashes Daily: A "bewildering" Boxing Day at the MCG
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Dec 26, 2025 Nas and Ath dive into the chaos of the 4th Ashes Test at the MCG, where 20 wickets fell in a bewildering day. They analyze the bowler-friendly pitch that made batting a struggle and debate England's bowling choices. Ath praises Harry Brook's counter-punching, especially his partnership with Ben Stokes, while critiquing England's top-order vulnerabilities. The duo also reflects on Scott Boland's surprising batting moments and speculates on tomorrow’s match dynamics amidst all the action.
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Pitch Favoured Bowlers At MCG
- The MCG pitch played far more for bowlers than many expected, producing a bewildering day with 20 wickets falling.
- Overcast conditions and visible grass gave the seamers plenty to work with, making batting unusually difficult.
Attack Stumps With Fuller Lengths
- Fuller, attacking lengths targeting the stumps were the most effective strategy on this surface.
- Ath praises simple line-and-length bowling rather than extreme short-ball tactics to let the pitch do the work.
Fielding Lifted England's Effort
- England's fielding and catching improved and contributed to pressure and wickets.
- Ath highlighted good catches and a run-out as positives amid a chaotic day.